New signing will do "a fantastic job"
Neal Ardley believes that new signing Darren Jones will have a big impact at AFC Wimbledon because he is a leader with a winning mentality.
Wimbledon’s latest defensive recruit comes with a wealth of experience and plenty of qualities that the fans will admire in the coming months, according to Neal. The move to bring in Jones comes just days after it was confirmed that Andy Frampton had suffered a dislocated shoulder during the draw at Scunthorpe United.
“Darren has had to take a bit of a jump quickly to come down here and play football because with that move comes family considerations and other factors,” said Neal. “But that shows that he is a player who is just desperate to play football. He is a winner and is an Andy Frampton-type player. He is captaincy material and as soon as we knew there was a chance of Darren becoming available we jumped on it quickly.
“We put a little bit of groundwork in to sign Darren, but he came onto our radar a little bit late. We did not realise that he would be available and that signing him would be within our budget. Both those factors became attainable and we are delighted to have signed Darren. I’m adamant that he will do a fantastic job for us.”
Speaking to Dons Player shortly after signing for Wimbledon today, Jones said he can’t wait to get started with his new club and is relishing a potential debut against Exeter City on Saturday.
“I was not playing at Shrewsbury and once I heard that Wimbledon were interested in me I could not get down here quickly enough,” said the defender. “I spoke to the manager here and he was very good. I can’t wait to get out there on Saturday, if selected, to express myself and do well for the club.”
Dons Player subscribers will be able to watch full video interviews with Neal Ardley and Darren Jones on our premium site this afternoon.